Lupus Part 4

Praise the Lord, Saints.

The first three parts of the lupus series have been presented, I pray that all who have this are doing their part to stay informed and healthy. We’ll discuss what you can do to live your best life on this last part.

Know that there is no cure for lupus, but there are things you can do to be at your best:

Exercise: Low impact workouts (walking, swimming, or taking a bike ride for example) can help with muscles and lower your risk of developing osteoporosis. This can also have a positive impact on your mood.

Get enough rest.

Eat well.

Avoid alcohol.

Don’t smoke.

Treat fevers: Don’t take fevers lightly, they could be lupus flareups.

Become a partner in your own care by building an honest relationship with your doctor

Follow the doctor’s treatment plan, and don’t be afraid to ask question. Remember to be patient because it takes time to find the right treatment that is best for you. For anyone with lupus, the treatments are not the same for everyone. Treatments can affect each person differently.

Get to know your disease, it’s now part of you.

Keep records of the symptoms, document what part of the body was affected, and any activity or situation that triggered the flareup.

Ask for help, you have nothing to be ashamed of.

You can also join a support group, it helps to be with others who are also battling lupus. Your support group should also include your family. They need to understand what you’re dealing with, inform them of what happens when you have a flareup. Take someone from your family to the doctor’s visit so they can listen to what’s being said and be better informed.

Be an encouragement to your loved ones, they have enough to deal with on a daily basis. Be open about your fears and concerns, and ask them to tell you theirs. Most of all, they need your support spiritually. Pray with them and for them, and use the Word of God.

I want to take a moment and pray that this series has been a blessing to you and your family. Know that you are not alone and that God is in your corner every step of the way.